Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour)
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Question 213: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the latest NESF report on mental health and social inclusion; the way the senior officials group will take these recommendations forward under the national action plan for social inclusion; if the senior officials group will publish regular reports on the implementation of the NESF's recommendations; if so, when the first will be produced; if targets, implementation schedules, performance indicators and outcomes will be published and established; if so, when; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33298/07]

Jimmy Devins (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fianna Fail)
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The Report of the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy, "A Vision for Change", which was launched in January 2006, acknowledges links between social inclusion and mental ill-health and the pervasive impact of stigma and discrimination on those experiencing mental ill-health. The report provides strong evidence linking poverty and mental ill-health and recognises the impact that the lack of housing and education can have on an individual's mental health and well-being. "A Vision for Change" makes a number of key recommendations designed to promote greater social inclusion for people with mental health problems.

The National Economic Social Forum's report on Mental Health and Social Inclusion is consistent with "A Vision for Change". It is the responsibility of each Government Department to implement the recommendations relevant to their Department. A cross-departmental structure is already in place under the Senior Official's Group on Social Inclusion to address the preventative aspects of health including mental health. In addition, the proposed Office of the Minister for Disability and Mental Health will oversee cross-departmental cooperation in the area of mental health.